Primary Stroke Center

Every Second Counts

If you or someone near you is having a stroke, it is important to get immediate medical attention. Strokes are the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. and is the leading cause of adult disability, but the majority of strokes are preventable. With the right information, you can make every second count to minimize brain damage and even save a life.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when a blood vessel is either blocked or bursts in the brain. When that happens, part of the brain cannot get the oxygen it needs and brain cells start to die after a few minutes.

Symptoms of a stroke:

Sudden weakness

Sudden paralysis or numbness of the face, arms or legs

Confusion

Sudden difficulty with speaking or understanding speech

Sudden difficulty with seeing in one or both eyes

Sudden headache, dizziness and difficulty with walking

Risk factors:

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Being overweight or obese and physical inactivity

Cigarette smoking or secondhand smoke

Heavy or binge drinking

Diabetes

Personal or family history of stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)

Our Primary Stroke Center is Here for You

UnityPoint Health - Methodist is a certified Primary Stroke Center with the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and provides comprehensive services from the emergency room to rehabilitation to diagnose and treat patients who suffer from a stroke. The professional stroke team--a board-certified stroke neurologist, registered nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, and dietitian--provide coordinated care and treatment throughout the patient's hospitalization. Neurosurgeons are available 24 hours a day.

Methodist also supports the Central Illinois Stroke Support Group, a free service for anyone who has had a stroke or has been affected by a stroke. Each session provides a forum for you to share experiences, express concerns and ask questions.